Aflion Iceberg vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Iceberg and Wuque Studio WS Red are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique qualities for keyboard enthusiasts. Aflion, a relatively new switch manufacturer, showcases their quality with the Iceberg switches. These linear switches are lauded for their smoothness and satisfying feel, thanks to a two-stage spring mechanism. Categorized as clacky, high-pitched, snappy, feathery, and subtle, the Iceberg switches offer a versatile typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red switches provide a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a familiar sound signature, courtesy of their classic material blend. These linear switches have a 22mm double-stage spring, resulting in a heavier actuation force that adds weight to each keystroke. This creates a satisfying and substantial typing feel. While these general pointers give a glimpse into the qualities of each switch, it is essential to delve deeper beyond generalities to make the best decision according to your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Wuque Studio WS Red differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Iceberg has a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that resonates clearly. On the other hand, the WS Red features a nylon top housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. So, while the Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing offers a clear and resonant sound, the WS Red's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller tone.
Both the Iceberg and the WS Red feature nylon bottom housings, resulting in similar sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing on the switches. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will offer a similar experience in terms of the sound profile generated when pressing down on the keys.
However, it's important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in the overall sound profile. The bottom housing primarily impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the different housing materials of the Iceberg and the WS Red may lead to slight variations in the sound profiles experienced during typing, with the Iceberg offering a sharper and crisper sound upon release, and the WS Red providing a deeper and rounder sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Aflion Iceberg switch has an actuation force of 37 grams, which is relatively light, while its bottom out force is 45 grams. In contrast, the actuation force of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch is currently unknown, making it difficult to directly compare. However, its bottom out force is 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aflion Iceberg switch, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for longer periods of typing without fatigue setting in. This makes it a suitable choice for individuals who use their keyboard extensively for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who are looking for a more substantial and forceful keystroke may find the Wuque Studio WS Red switch more appealing. With its higher bottom out force, users can experience a stronger push feel while typing, providing a more impactful typing experience.
It should be noted that while the actuation force of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch is unavailable, it is possible that it falls within a similar range as the Aflion Iceberg switch. In this case, both switches could potentially offer similar results in terms of actuation force, despite the difference in bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Iceberg and Wuque Studio WS Red switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8mm. The Iceberg's 4.0mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the WS Red's 3.8mm travel distance is slightly shallower, making it more suitable for gamers who prioritize faster response times. Choosing the Iceberg would offer a slightly deeper and more tactile key press, while opting for the WS Red would provide a slightly quicker and more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on individual preferences and whether one prefers a greater sense of depth or a faster response time when pressing keys.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Iceberg has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iceberg for $3.07.
The Wuque Studio WS Red comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Iceberg switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. This means that when pressed, the switch produces a crisp, bright, and percussive sound that is sharp and snappy. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch is unknown. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, with the right combination, you can expect similar results in sound from both switches.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Iceberg switch offers a snappy and fulfilling typing experience. This is thanks to its two-stage spring that provides a super responsive feel, making the typing experience feel more alive. Additionally, the Iceberg switch is described as having a feathery feel, meaning it requires little exertion from your fingers and reduces finger fatigue. This light actuation force is ideal for extended typing sessions, making it suitable for gaming, school, or work. On the other hand, the feel of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch is unknown.
In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg and Wuque Studio WS Red switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iceberg switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, while the WS Red switch's sound profile is unknown. In terms of feel, the Iceberg switch offers a snappy and feathery typing experience, while the feel of the WS Red switch is unknown. However, it's important to note that the sound and feel of both switches can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, with the right combination, you can achieve similar results in sound and feel with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and fulfilling typing experience with a light actuation force, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer a snappy and feathery feel, making them perfect for gaming, school, or work, especially during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Iceberg switches produce a clacky and high-pitched sound, adding a crisp and bright element to your typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and substantial typing feel with a touch of weight to each keystroke, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch is the better choice. With its heavier actuation force and double-stage spring, these switches provide a responsive typing experience while maintaining a familiar sound signature. Ultimately, the decision between the Iceberg and the WS Red depends on your personal preferences for key feel and sound.
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